TARLAC CITY — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has equipped 50 members of the Tarlac Bakers Community and the Culinaria Tarlaqueño Association with essential knowledge on food safety through a seminar held at the Tarlac Capitol Center.
Conducted through the Negosyo Center in Tarlac City, the activity aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of those in the gastronomy sector, particularly bakers and culinary creatives, by providing practical guidance on food safety.
DTI Tarlac OIC-Division Chief Maria Divina Gloria Ramos highlighted the importance of maintaining food safety throughout the supply chain.
“Food safety is essential, especially for bakers and chefs. As the Food Safety Act of 2013 emphasizes, safety must be ensured at every stage of the food chain—from planting raw materials, to transport from farm to market, and finally to preparation in the kitchen. Every step matters to protect consumers until the food is finally consumed,” she said.
During the seminar, Department of Science and Technology Senior Science Research Specialist Dhanizze Mae Pili served as the resource speaker, reminding participants that those working in the food sector must stay informed about current food safety standards.
She discussed the 5S of Good Housekeeping, noting that even basic measures can significantly impact operations and consumer trust.
Additionally, Pili addressed compliance with food safety laws and their implications for consumers, identified potential food hazards, and reiterated the importance of maintaining proper hygiene throughout all stages of food preparation.
Participants described the program as both insightful and practical.
“Food safety is not just a practice—it’s a responsibility. As bakers, we don’t just serve food; we serve trust, care, and quality with every bite,” participant Jessica Mei Bacnis shared.
She likewise expressed gratitude for the initiative, saying, “Thank you, DTI Tarlac, for equipping us with the knowledge and tools to raise our standards. Your commitment to empowering local bakers through seminars like this ensures safer, healthier communities—one baked good at a time.”
Furthermore, DTI Tarlac expressed its commitment to continue offering similar programs in the coming years.
Plans include developing advanced modules on food processing, ensuring compliance with product labeling, protecting intellectual property, and building stronger partnerships with other institutions to provide mentorship and market linkages.
